Atlantic Puffin

Known as the “clown of the sea” for its colorful beak and endearing waddle, the Atlantic puffin is a favorite among zoo visitors. These seabirds are excellent swimmers and divers, using their wings to propel themselves underwater in search of fish.

Zoos create specialized enclosures for puffins, featuring rocky cliffs, pools of cold saltwater, and nesting burrows to replicate their natural coastal habitats. Their diet is based on small fish like herring and capelin, provided fresh daily to meet their nutritional needs.

Puffins in zoos often participate in breeding programs to boost their population, as they face threats in the wild from overfishing and climate change. Educational exhibits highlight their role in marine ecosystems and the importance of protecting their ocean habitats.